Oldest state parks running series in nation to kick off at Rock Island Oct. 8

NASHVILLE – The 2011-2012 Tennessee State Parks Running Tour will kick off on Saturday, Oct. 8, at Rock Island State Park outside McMinnville. The Rock Island 5 Miler is the first of 21 foot races scheduled at different state parks from October through March.

NASHVILLE – The Department of Environment and Conservation’s Division of Solid Waste Management is notifying 11 counties and their municipalities that generate the most waste in Tennessee that they are eligible for recycling rebates based on their final 2010 waste generation reporting data.

Third Annual Event to Feature Native American Traditions

CLEVELAND, Tenn. – Red Clay State Park will host its Third Annual Pow Wow October 21-23, featuring traditional Native American dance, food and arts. Activities will begin at 9 a.m. each day. The festival is open to the public.

Metal working will be just one of the many traditional skills featured at Cedars of Lebanon State Park's WPA Day on Oct. 1.

Day of Observance to Honor WPA’s Creation and Impact on Tennessee

LEBANON, Tenn. – Cedars of Lebanon State Park will host its annual Works Progress Administration Day on Saturday, Oct. 1. With the theme, “Building a Park,” the event will feature historical and cultural programs throughout the day, along with unique demonstrations – all portraying life during the period when Cedars of Lebanon State Park was created. All events are free to the public and will be held from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m.

Musicians and dancers of all ages will participate in the 30th Annual Pow Wow at Long Hunter State Park Oct. 14-16.

NASHVILLE – Long Hunter State Park will host the 30th Annual Pow Wow and Fall Festival Oct. 14-16, featuring Native American artists, musicians, dancers, food and storytellers. Sponsored by the Native American Indian Association of Tennessee, this time-honored gathering draws thousands of people from across the country and offers a great opportunity to explore a variety of tribal customs and cultural experiences.

NASHVILLE – Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation Commissioner Bob Martineau and Deputy Commissioner Brock Hill announced today the inns at Paris Landing, Natchez Trace and Pickwick Landing state parks have been certified as “Tennessee Green Hospitality” facilities by the Tennessee Hospitality Association. The three hotels join a roster of only 33 certified facilities in the state, including the Inn at Fall Creek Falls State Park.